Howe Island Rockin’ the Rock is a charming one‑day indie music festival held amid the natural beauty of the Thousand Islands on Howe Island, just off shore near Kingston, Ontario.

Described as a “secret garden well hidden from the mainstream,” the festival offers an intimate, up‑close encounter with performers - unlike most commercial festivals.

The festival shines a spotlight on a mix of national and rising local talent. Past headliners included Wide Mouth Mason, My Son the Hurricane, The Wilderness, Kasador and more. This year was no less amazing with a lineup curated for a party and good vibes.

Sticky Henderson delivered eclectic tunes with flair. Their stagecraft and dynamic variety kicked off the event with home‑grown pride and playful energy.

Local musical heroes Bon Evans Band brought heartfelt singer‑songwriter energy. Bon's storytelling lyricism and warm stage rapport with a full band fostered a sense of community. And an intimate and folky moment - a calm before the storm.

Hard Luck & Trouble—full of familiar faces—a blues-rock outfit, added soulful electric guitar solos and earthy vocals. Their riffs cut deep, showcasing a raw, emotional tone that grounded the festival in authentic, roots‑driven rock. Not bad for a debut show.

By mid-afternoon, The Brothership’s funk grooves had people moving, and thankfully on a cooler day as their basslines and horn arrangements gave the stage vibrant, dance-club energy - an ideal palette cleanser between rock-heavy sets.

Energetic indie‑rock group Goodnight Sunrise brought infectious dual vocals and synth riffs that immediately electrified the festival atmosphere. Their blend of soaring choruses and danceable rhythms offered a modern contrast to the classic and mellow vibe to the day.

And finally ending the evening, The Box,
Veteran Canadian rock icons, The Box delivered a powerful headlining set crowned by their classic “Closer Together.” Their stage presence was confident yet intimate, seamlessly blending nostalgia with tight musicianship, proof that they still resonate strongly with festival audiences.

The crowd was loving every bit of it
- and so was our photographer Wayne Turcotte. Please enjoy his gallery of photos from the evening below. Posted: Jul 23, 2025